Compression fitting leaks from behind the nut

[ThinkNotes]

Hi ALL: I have read some of the posts but despite following the directions, I still find that my 1/2 inch compression fitting for a bathroom sink supply pipe (copper) is still leaking very slowly from behind the nut.

I did the following:

• Cleaned the copper pipe with emory cloth

• The pipe itself is new, so hopefully the roundness is not an issue (no visual flaw detected)

• I inserted the nut, then the ferrule (out about 1/8th of an inch) and then tightened (not too much).

• I donotice that I can physically slide the nut back and forth on the pipe (does it mean that I probably need to tighten it some more?)

What can I do to prevent this from leaking? The choices I have at this point are to call a professional plumber and have him solder the joint.

Would it help if I put teflon tape around the pipe and then inserted the nut and the ferrule on top of the pipe (thereby ensuring a snugger fit between the ferrule and the pipe)? I havent tried this approach though several folks have indicated that it works.

Thanks for any advice that you can provide,

Warm wishes Manju

[Speedy Jim]

After tightening, you should not be able to move the ferrule; it should have embedded itself right into the copper pipe. I wouldn't use tape, but you can apply a bit of sealant to the ferrule and then retighten.

Jim

[Stormin Mormonn]

Soak the fitting iwth WD-40 adn retighten. Little tighter this time.

The WD helps the ferrule slip into the little spaces.

[Wade Lippman]

Or you could learn to solder! The basics aren't very expensive and it is kinda fun.

[ThinkNotes]

Thanks, Jim. I guess, I wasnt tightening enough, eh? What kind of sealant are you thinking about? I have JB Weld at home, in addition to the teflon paste (white stuff). Should I put the sealant to the tube so that the ferrule then slides on top and then gets sealed? Or should i just add some sealant to the outside-end of the ferrule where it meets the tube?

Best wishes/manju

[Speedy Jim]

Teflon paste/pipe dope would be good. It will make tightening easier also. Don't overtighten! As someone else suggested, WD-40 will also make it easier to tighten. It is a fine line between tight and too tight. Jim